“Connectivity Must Move from Aspiration to Implementation,” Says Chairman Drew
Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, February 26, 2026 (PMO) — Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, has called for urgent and coordinated action to strengthen air and sea transportation links across the region, describing connectivity as essential to advancing Caribbean integration and economic resilience.
Delivering his feature address at the Opening Ceremony of the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, February 24th, Prime Minister Drew emphasized that longstanding discussions about mobility within the region must now give way to decisive implementation.
“Connectivity must move from aspiration to implementation,” the Chairman stated.
He further underscored the practical challenges facing Caribbean citizens and businesses, declaring, “It must not be easier to travel beyond our region than within it.”
Dr. Drew stressed that limited inter-island connectivity constrains trade, restricts tourism potential, hinders cultural exchange, and slows the free movement of people and goods, all of which are central to the vision of deeper regional integration under CARICOM.
The Prime Minister urged Member States to “strengthen air and sea links, improve port efficiency and digitize customs systems that serve our purpose,” noting that modern, efficient infrastructure is critical to unlocking intra-regional commerce and enhancing competitiveness “Connectivity is the infrastructure of togetherness. It allows trade, culture and opportunity to circulate freely within our shared Caribbean space,” he emphasized.
As the 50th Regular Meeting continues, leaders are engaged in discussions aimed at translating shared aspirations into coordinated action that strengthens the movement of goods, services, and people throughout the region.
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